Legacy Challenge Spotlight: Greg and Donna Daniels
Greg and Donna Daniels, accomplished entrepreneurs, embody the significance of estate planning, regardless of one’s age. In 2021, these dynamic individuals, both in their 50s, made a resolute commitment to create a lasting legacy by establishing the Gregory and Donna Daniels Memorial Scholarship at the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys.
Residing on Cudjoe Key, the Daniels couple manages not just one, but two thriving businesses. In 2018, they ventured into the world of apiculture with Cudjoe Bee, a highly successful honey business. They personally engage with consumers and actively participate in farmer’s markets, sharing their exquisite honey. Recognizing a sudden void in the Florida Keys’ coffee roasting community, the enterprising couple embarked on a new venture, Latitude 24 Coffee Company. With the guidance of a seasoned master coffee roaster, Greg and Donna honed their roasting skills over several months before unveiling their craft to the market. Their specialty lies in roasting organic, Fair Trade coffees sourced from various corners of the world, right here in the enchanting Florida Keys.
Although the sweethearts exchanged vows in September 2012, they hail from the chilly Northeast. Donna, originally from Upstate New York, holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Syracuse University and a master’s degree from the State University of New York at Oswego. In 2010, Donna found her way to the Florida Keys, where she spent a decade as an accountant at Keys Federal Credit Union. For seven years, she served as the managing partner of DSV & Associates, an accounting, tax, and payroll firm. Greg, a native of Vermilion, Ohio, spent many years in Key West before meeting Donna, and studied Marine Propulsion Technology at the College of the Florida Keys. He is also a charter boat captain and works remotely as a Telecommunications Construction Coordinator.
The Daniels are unwavering in their dedication to the community. Donna plays a pivotal role as a board member of Hometown, a nonprofit organization that provides valuable resources for candidate and election information, serving the voting community of Key West and Monroe County. She is also on the board of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce. The couple’s shared love for travel has led them to numerous destinations, but France and Switzerland hold a special place in their hearts.
Their estate gift will fund scholarships for graduating seniors in the Florida Keys, enabling them to enroll in accredited vocational or trade programs. Greg and Donna’s commitment to this cause stems from their firm belief that local youth pursuing trades like auto mechanics should receive the same support as those pursuing traditional four year degrees.
“We’ve chosen to make charitable contributions through our estate since we don’t have children,” shared the Daniels. Their deep passion for animals inspired them to allocate funds for animal welfare organizations. Greg and Donna selected the Community Foundation to manage their scholarship because of its distinguished reputation as a permanent institution that will faithfully uphold their wishes in the Keys.
The Daniels now fully enjoy the benefits of being esteemed members of the Legacy Society of the Community Foundation, without having to donate a single dollar during their lifetimes. They can prioritize investing in their businesses and enjoying travel. However, thanks to the Community Foundation’s Jean Stearns Legacy Society Challenge, the generosity of Donna and Greg is indeed having an impact in the Keys today. Their documented gift for the Legacy Challenge has unlocked an immediate $2,500 donation to their Gregory and Donna Daniels Scholarship Fund.
To learn about the Legacy Challenge, visit cffk.org/legacychallenge.